Created in 1999, Yorkshire Forward is the Regional Development Agency for Yorkshire and Humber, tasked with driving forward the economic growth of one of England’s largest and most diverse regions.

Since its formation the agency has invested over £1billion, created more than 128,000 jobs and attracted more than £1.7 billion private sector investment to the Yorkshire and Humber region.

It has achieved this by operating in three key areas; by working to attract businesses to the region and to create the jobs that will help them grow, by ensuring the people of Yorkshire and Humber have the skills and access to training that means they can help drive the economy forward, and by shaping communities that are inspirational places to live, work and invest.

Yorkshire Forward is leading the region in the development of its business support provision with a new region wide service from 1 April 2008. The new service will provide increased front line services, greater efficiency and a single information gateway - ensuring companies of all sizes and sectors can access the guidance they need to help their business prosper.

For more information on how Yorkshire Forward is driving economic growth in the region, visit www.yorkshire-forward.com

Hull is rapidly becoming an important and diverse centre of enterprise and investment. A thriving port, improving transport links and a growing economy make Hull an attractive location for businesses.

Hull City Council helps existing and new enterprises to grow. Offering business advice and support, encouraging and promoting business opportunities and providing a range of business services to private and public sector organisations.

The City is undergoing an unprecedented period of regeneration. Hundreds of millions of pounds of investment are helping transform the way we live, work and play. The highly successful “Deep”, the multi faceted Kingston Communications Stadium and the St Stephen’s and Quay West developments all contribute to ensure Hull is the driver of the Hull and Humber Ports City-Region. This continued regeneration will be accelerated by the proposals to introduce the City Development Company - Hull Forward.

Hull City Council has supported the Yorkshire International Business Convention in Hull since it’s conception in 2004. Since that time, we have watched it flourish year on year into a major business and networking event highly regarded by the business community.